In the May Journal, The Legal Writer continues its series on what we can learn from the great teachers of writing.

Any meaningful view of New York law from the bench requires an honest discussion of who is on that bench – the composition of the judiciary empowered to interpret and apply New York law.

As a junior attorney, I cherished my time as law clerk. I can only hope to provide my own court attorney the same challenging, thrilling, and rewarding experience that I had.

The interests of justice are not well served if New York law does not enjoy consistency in both state and federal courts. Fortunately, through use of the certification process, the Second Circuit and the Court of Appeals have minimized the possibility of competing views on New York law.

As the media capital of the country if not the world, New York has a long history and tradition of providing a hospitable climate for the free exchange of ideas.

The task is a daunting one: to identify the historical “giants” of New York State’s judiciary

Our legal history is a great New York narrative: Leading jurists, a vibrant bar, and a unique docket combine, generating prominence and influence well beyond our borders.

The May Bar Journal will be arriving in NYSBA members’ mailboxes soon. In the meantime, you can view the complete issue online now.